OPERA America draws on resources and expertise from within and beyond the opera field to advance a mutually beneficial agenda that serves and strengthens the field through programs in the following categories:

Creation: Artistic services that help artists and companies increase the creativity and excellence of opera productions, especially North American works;

Presentation: Opera company services that address the specific needs of staff, trustees and volunteers;

Enjoyment: Education, audience development and community services that increase all forms of opera appreciation.

New York City is home to the nation’s largest concentration of performing and creative artists, professional training institutions and music businesses. A majority of OPERA America’s Professional Company Members hold or attend auditions in New York City annually, and opera leaders from Europe and around the world are regular visitors.

In response to the pressing need for appropriate space in New York by members who suffered from the lack of good audition and work facilities in the city, OPERA America created the National Opera Center. The Opera Center serves many functions that support the artistic and economic vitality of the field by providing its constituents with a range and level of services never before possible.

OPERA America serves members across the entire opera field through research, publications and services in support of the creation, performance and enjoyment of opera. Our work is only possible with the generous support of donors dedicated to the future of opera in America.

Candace Whitcomb has been the paid soloist in her church for forty years. The members of her choir surprise her with a party during which she and her suitor, William Emmons, the choir director, sing together. As everyone departs at the party's end, William discreetly leaves a photo album on Candace's table. Candace finds the album and reminisces about her forty years of service. At the back of the book she finds a note from William, dismissing her from her singing duties and naming Alma Way, her nephew's fiance, as her replacement. That Sunday the congregation assembles and Alma prepares to sing her solo. Suddenly, next door in her cottage, Candace begins singing her own solo. The Reverend, after the service, rushes to the cottage and implores Candace to refrain from singing during worship. However, that afternoon, Candace repeats her solo performance. Wilson, Candace's nephew, rushes from the church threatening to throw her organ out the window if she won't stop singing. Candace retaliates by refusing to name Wilson in her will. Suddenly overcome, Candace becomes very ill. Eventually agreeing to see William and Reverend Pollard, Candace repents, gives her blessing to Alma, and asks her to sing for her. Candace points out variances in pitch and then dies.

To have your company’s photos included in the header rotation, send photos that are at least 1200px wide and 550px tall to Webmaster@operaamerica.org. Please note that submission of photos does not guarantee inclusion.

All OPERA America facilities are handicapped accessible. The National Opera Center features ground-level entry with elevators to the venue. All spaces are wheelchair accessible, and modular seating can be arranged to accommodate wheelchair users for all programs and performances. Handicapped accessible restrooms are available on all floors.